In a wedding celebration spanning three days, Princess Märtha Louise of Norway tied the knot with American self-proclaimed shaman Durek Verrett in the quaint town of Geiranger. The couple exchanged vows in a grand white tent, with attendees including social media influencers, reality stars, and TV personalities. Performances by Norwegian and U.S. artists, a gospel choir, and a singer from Norway’s indigenous Sámi community added to the festive atmosphere.
The majestic event garnered comparisons to Hollywood glamour meeting the serene beauty of Geiranger, as described by Norwegian TV personality Harald Rønneberg. King Harald, accompanied by Queen Sonja and other members of the Norwegian royal family, graced the occasion. Despite the absence of other European royals, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and her family represented the Swedish royal house at the ceremony.
Amidst public backlash and diminishing support for the Norwegian royals, Princess Märtha Louise and Verrett faced criticism over their unconventional beliefs. Märtha Louise, who ranks fourth in line to the Norwegian throne, announced in 2022 that she would no longer officially represent the royal house. The princess, known for her claims of communicating with angels, and Verrett, who professes to interact with spirits, agreed in a 2019 pact not to exploit her royal connections for commercial gain.
While the couple sold their wedding photo rights to a British celebrity magazine and secured a Netflix film deal, media backlash ensued in Norway over the perceived breach of local customs. Märtha Louise also courted controversy by attaching her royal title to a gin brand, contravening King Harald’s directive against exploiting her status for profit. The label was eventually altered following the public outcry.
Having been previously married to author Ari Behn, with whom she shares three children, Princess Märtha Louise and Verrett embarked on their new chapter post-wedding. Verrett, without a royal title or official responsibilities, is now the partner of the Norwegian princess, who retains her royal status but steers clear of formal royal duties.
